CML Access Control & Electromechanical Systems Flashcards

What is the primary difference between a fail-safe and a fail-secure electrified lock?

Answer: Fail-safe locks are unlocked when power is lost; fail-secure locks remain locked when power is lost

Fail-safe locks release and allow egress when power is cut, while fail-secure locks remain locked during a power outage, maintaining security.

An electric strike differs from an electromagnetic lock in that an electric strike:

Answer: Replaces the strike plate and releases mechanically, allowing the door hardware to remain passive

An electric strike replaces the standard strike plate and releases to allow the latch or bolt to pass, whereas an electromagnetic lock holds the door via magnetic attraction requiring constant power.

What is the standard voltage used for most low-voltage access control locking devices in the US?

Answer: 24V DC or 12V DC

Most access control locking hardware operates on 12V DC or 24V DC low-voltage power to comply with safety codes and allow use with standard access control power supplies.

Which wiring configuration allows monitoring of a door contact's open, closed, and tampered (wire cut) states?

Answer: Supervised circuit with end-of-line resistors

Supervised circuits with end-of-line (EOL) resistors allow the access control system to distinguish between normal closed, normal open, and tampered/shorted states.

A mortise-style electrified lockset is typically preferred over a cylindrical electrified lockset for high-traffic commercial doors because:

Answer: Mortise locks have a heavier-duty body and integrate the latch, deadbolt, and electrical components more robustly

Mortise lock bodies are thicker and more mechanically robust, making them better suited for high-traffic commercial applications where durability is critical.

When installing an electromagnetic lock on a door that must comply with ADA and fire code, the CML must ensure:

Answer: A request-to-exit (REX) motion sensor or push-plate is installed so the door can be opened without a credential

ADA and fire codes require that electrified doors have a means of egress that does not require a credential, typically a REX sensor or a push-to-exit button.